Local charities ignite fireworks sales

Nearly three dozen nonprofits won the lottery to host a "Safe and Sane" fireworks stand in Stockton.

And the volunteers working these booths know how put some spark into the Fourth of July.

"We are selling TNT fireworks. Now, I've been in marketing so I know how to sell," Earl C. Johnson, the pastor of Abundant Life Church of God and Christ in Stockton, said Sunday during a lull on business "The 49er is $49.99 and it's really popular. We're hoping to raise enough money to purchase a church van."

The Abundant Life's stand is in Thornton Plaza on Thornton Road in north Stockton.

Volunteering at the booth means having to endure a steady stream of flavorful fumes wafting from Best Lumpia and Dante's California Style Pizza.

But Johnson is on a strict diet, so he's not tempted.

Just up the street at the Phantom Fireworks booth in the parking lot of the Elks Lodge No. 218, a package deal dubbed the Backyard Barrage is popular at $159.99.

"It's great for block parties," said Connie Revay as she and the other Elks folks spent their Sunday volunteering at the booth. "Everyone can bring some fireworks and put on a show."

Frank Chicago, secretary of the lodge, said proceeds help fund programs in the community that the Elks support.

"We do a lot of charity work," he said. "We are really into supporting veterans, too."

In the Hammer Ranch shopping center, Norris Palmer of Mayfair Christian Church had rounded up some of the faithful to put in some hours.

"I call it a fundraiser and a friendraiser," he said. "We're all getting to know each other better. How can you not after spending a two- to three-hour shift together? It's been great."

Palmer said he appreciates that the city, police and fire departments all support the fireworks booths because he thinks the proceeds make a difference in the community.

Mayfair will use some fireworks profits to send kids to camp, support local charities and help the homeless.

The booths are open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July.

Check out tntfireworks.com and fireworks.com for locations of booths in California communities where Safe and Sane fireworks are sold.